American Fork fires treasurer during missing funds investigation

AMERICAN FORK — The city fired treasurer Heidi Mitchell on Thursday amid an investigation into missing city funds that is now in the hands of the Utah County Attorney's office.

The city saw irregularities in utility funds and started an investigation Feb. 24, bringing in the Utah County Sheriff's Office to help American Fork Police and putting Mitchell on administrative leave.

"Their investigation is now complete and it has been turned over to the county attorney," Administrative Services Director Melanie Marsh said Friday afternoon.

No charges have been filed, and a time frame for the investigation is not known. Mitchell could not be reached for comment.

American Fork labeled the investigation a "possible misappropriation of funds" in a March 13 press release. The city has not said how much money was missing but said the investigation "is one that has required an extensive amount of time and research."

"We're looking at all areas," Marsh said Friday, saying anomalies with utility funds lead to a broader audit. "We do believe some other areas may be involved."

Insurance will cover the city's financial loss. "She was a bonded employee, so the city will be able to recoup those funds through the bond," Marsh said.

He said Mitchell had worked for the city for more than 10 years. The city is now looking for a new treasurer. "The city will move forward," Marsh said.